Phyllotreta chalybeipennis
(Crotch, 1873)
Phyllotreta chalybeipennis is a flea beetle in the Chrysomelidae. The is distributed in the Caribbean and North America. Both larvae and are associated with the plant Cakile edentula (American sea rocket), with larvae mining leaves and adults feeding on foliage. Like other members of the Phyllotreta, it possesses enlarged hind adapted for jumping.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phyllotreta chalybeipennis: //ˌfɪloʊˈtriːtə ˌkæˌlaɪbiˈpɛnɪs//
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Habitat
Coastal where the plant Cakile edentula (American sea rocket) occurs. Cakile edentula is a succulent plant native to Atlantic coastlines, growing on beaches, dunes, and coastal strand .
Distribution
Caribbean Sea region and North America. GBIF records confirm presence in the Caribbean and North America, including Nova Scotia, Canada.
Diet
Larvae are leaf miners of Cakile edentula. feed on leaves of the same plant.
Host Associations
- Cakile edentula - (larvae); folivore ()American sea rocket; both life stages feed on this coastal plant
More Details
Taxonomic Note
First described by Crotch in 1873. The specific epithet 'chalybeipennis' refers to steel-blue (chalybeus) wings (pennis), though actual coloration should be verified from specimens.